Object Description
From our collection of antique Japanese ceramics, this unusual Meiji-era (1868-1912) Satsuma tea bowl with Dutch “Black Ship” decoration.
The Black Ship motif is a decorative pattern seen more commonly on Imari ceramics. It is unusual to find it on a Satsuma piece.
Depictions of Western people on Japanese art are often, not what most people would call “flattering.” They often feature exaggerated noses and chins and heavy set brows under tall hats. Often, the faces are painted to look the same whether they are for men, women or children. However the figures on this bowl are more thoughtfully painted, each one with different features and personality as well as a wide variety of colourful Western clothing.
This bowl is an interesting insight into how Japanese artists, saw the Western traders.